Family, friends, and relatives all come together to witness the union of two families. As an elaborate event, it is inevitable that a lot of decision-making goes into planning a wedding. After you say “yes” to getting married and before you can say “I do,” the bride and groom-to-be in the Philippines need to go through the various wedding planning stages. While weddings are ubiquitous events wherever you may be in the world, planning a wedding in the Philippines may be quite different than what we see portrayed in western television—not only because of the stark disparity of Filipino and Western culture but also because of the various traditions and processes that come with Philippine weddings. 

Traditional Filipino weddings require you to come up with a list of ninongs and ninangs to stand as wedding sponsors. You also need to obtain the necessary documents and requirements to ensure that you can push through with your wedding. With a lot to consider, it bears no question that weddings require meticulous planning. The list below features everything you need to know about planning a wedding so that you can create a memorable big day that you and your husband-to-be will never forget. 

a.) Set a realistic budget 

While there are some brides and grooms that dream of an elaborate event, there will be many of them who will be constrained to the budget, they said. That said, you should never proceed to plan a wedding without discussing with your partner just how much you want to spend for your celebration. As a practical couple, set a realistic budget that would not break the bank and still allow you to enjoy the wedding of your dreams. 

b.) Hire a wedding planner/coordinator 

To be able to enjoy your wedding day fully, it is best if you leave all the planning logistics to a wedding planner. That said, a good and effective wedding planner will truly be a blessing, depending on the kind of wedding you are planning. Be sure to read the reviews before deciding on one. Also, it is recommended to have an idea of what wedding planner services you need in order to select the best fit. 

c.) Wedding Requirements 

Wherever you may choose to solemnize your marriage—whether that may be in a church, a garden, or even in a civil ceremony, you and your partner will need to secure the necessary papers to have a wedding that is legally binding. For all the weddings celebrated and solemnized in the Philippines, a valid marriage license is required. 

d.) Wedding ceremony and reception venues 

During the initial stages of wedding planning, you and your partner need to decide on where you wish to have your wedding ceremony and your reception. In fact, you need to book your wedding ceremony venue and reception venue first before booking any other vendor. Choose venues that you and your partner both love, but make sure that both would fall within your budget. Catholic weddings need to be celebrated in a church, so you need to a separate venue. Civil ceremonies and Christian weddings can be celebrated in the same venue where you will be having your reception. Be sure to choose a place that can accommodate all the guests you want to be present on your big day. 

e.) Styling and floral arrangements 

Celebrating your big day would be incomplete without flowers to bedeck your wedding ceremony and reception venue. With that in mind, you and your partner need to think of a theme that resonates with both of you and incorporate that into the Styling of your event. From there, choose the wedding supplier that can make your vision come true—from the bridal bouquet down to the flower centerpieces. 

f.) Catering and food 

One of the best things about weddings is the food that is served. That said, do not let your guests leave hungry at your wedding. So, choose enough food to accommodate your guests. Keep in mind that the better the food served is, the happier your guests will be. 

g.) Wedding Cake 

Your wedding cake can act as the centerpiece of your event or can simply be an aesthetic addition to the overall Styling of your venue. So, whether you are choosing a minimalist naked cake or an elaborate multi-tiered one, make sure that it is one you would cut during the wedding reception. Like everything else, be sure to choose one that goes with your wedding them and decors. 

h.) Photography and videography 

Immortalize the memories of your big day by booking wedding photographers and videographers. You want every memorable moment captured on film, so be sure to choose your wedding photographers and videographers wisely. These are the memories you will want to last forever, so hire ones with a good eye for style. 

i.) Hair and Makeup 

It goes without question that a hair and makeup stylist will be hired for the bride and groom. However, the wedding entourage and maybe a few of the couple’s family members would require hair and makeup artists as well. Choose one with good reviews and who can also pull off the kind of look you want on your wedding day. 

j.) Wedding favors and giveaways 

Customarily, brides and grooms give out wedding favors and souvenirs as a token of their appreciation for being there on their biggest day. Wedding favors are an excellent way of appreciating your guests for attending your wedding. Like everything else, be sure to choose one that fits your wedding theme and also one that your guests will love. 

The post Ultimate Guide to Weddings in the Philippines  appeared first on Hizon's Catering.

As the quarantine period becomes indefinite in our calendar you are about to came across different special occasions in your life. We are here to turn your worries into possibilities of having the most memorable quarantine celebration under your roof.

Our concept of ‘Party in a Box” comprises of a complete, specific and accessible party packages for all kinds of intimate celebration you can simply organize at home.

From our variety of designs that emphasize the highlights of your celebration up to our signature dishes commonly served in our buffet and now to your dining tables, you can definitely have your party done with us.

Here are our signature dishes where you can choose from MENU SET 1 – MENU SET 4, which all sets come in various number of pax.

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS

ADD ONS

Here are our design packages for different kinds of event.

1.  ANNIVERSARY PARTY SET

Celebrate your milestone of love with our COMPLETE ANNIVERSARY PARTY SET. Surprise your special someone with a little effort that will surely win a bigger space in his/her heart. Our party set comes in a complete aesthetic of party needs from the banner, balloons down to dining essential that will surely save your time and effort. Make it simple yet remarkable with us!

2. GENDER REVEAL PARTY SET

For couples, the additional gift to your family deserves a pre-welcome party. A gender reveals party is more than just a tradition, it is also a bonding moment for the whole family as you all welcome an additional member.

3. BAPTISMAL PARTY SET

As you welcome your little angel to the Christian World, we are adding up another blessing of a complete party set.

4. ADULT BIRTHDAY PARTY SET

One of the most favorable and commonly celebrated occasions during this quarantine period is Birthday. Celebrate as you surpassed and welcome another year in your life. Our adult party set comes in a simple yet adorable design that fits adult parties for all ages. 

5. KID’S BIRTHDAY PARTY

Grant your little one’s wish of having a simple home celebration. Make it possible with our child-friendly menu that surely kids and even kids at heart would love. Have a trendy backdrop to fill your picture-perfect moments with our balloon letters.

6. INTIMATE WEDDING PARTY SET

As we weigh the value of a traditional wedding and a new normal wedding it is of the same importance but not of the same preparation and precautions. Now that we are facing our unforeseen enemy, weddings have been downgraded, limited, intimate, and discretionary between couples. Couples are given the choice of whether to push through with an intimate celebration or wait for a certain time until they can turn their plans to an ultimate one. For couples who choose an intimate home celebration, our party in a box got your back.

As we are in a pace of changes let us be flexible and resilient, let us not allow this pandemic to take away life moments that deserve recognition. Plan it ahead with us today!

For more information, you can drop us a message on https://www.facebook.com/foodorderbyhizons/

We also offer flowers and other gift items: https://www.facebook.com/foodorderbyhizons/

For other event inquiries, please visit: https://hizonscatering.com

The post Hizon’s Catering Launches Party in a Box appeared first on Hizon's Catering.

What makes a wedding beautiful and romantic? 

Well, for starters, the essence of a wedding is in the deep-seated promise and commitment to forever by both the husband and the wife to each other. In a sense, what makes a wedding beautiful is the fact that you are witnessing a couple’s promise to love each other for eternity—a life’s milestone for many. However, to aptly celebrate such a significant event, one must create an ambience—an atmosphere—fitting enough to host it. In this regard, your wedding day should be artfully decorated with all the elements that define who you and your partner are as a couple. With this in mind, selecting the right venue is pivotal to creating the perfect wedding atmosphere for you. 

While many might argue that any venue can be jazzed up with the help of proper décor elements, wedding decorations can only take you so far. Your décor elements serve only to amplify and beautify your wedding venue while the latter essentially dictates the atmosphere. In this regard, selecting the right wedding venue should be of utmost importance. This is because once you and your partner have decided on a wedding venue; every other detail should fall into place, such as the décor, theme, and colour. In the Philippines, where weddings are becoming more elaborate than ever, it is imperative that you harmonize your wedding venue with the concept you have in mind while being careful not to overlook the practical aspects of it into consideration (cost, logistics, etc.). In this regard, all of your wedding reception’s elements and other considerations will be adequately covered. 

Intramuros, a particular city in Metro Manila, has been making waves all over the internet for being just the right aesthetic for weddings. Apart from the rustic vibe this historical city gives weddings, it is a welcome and much closer alternative than having scenic wedding locations such as Tagaytay and Batangas which are an hour or two away from the metropolis. To see why this historical city has been making quite a buzz as a wedding locale as of late, read on below. 

LIST OF ROMANTIC WEDDING VENUES NEAR INTRAMUROS

While cobble-stoned Intramuros already provides the right aesthetic for rustic weddings, it does have its fair share of garden wedding venues. These venues are perfect for couples who do not necessarily want a cookie-cutter type of wedding venue but would like to incorporate some conventional aspects found in traditional weddings. In this regard, going for a venue that wonderfully harmonizes Intramuros’ rustic elements with the conventionality of a modern garden wedding is a welcome alternative to most couples who are looking to take this route. 

PLAZA MORIONES

Plaza Moriones is a fully matured garden that is more than twenty-five years old. Because of its age, one can expect to see lush foliage and verdant greenery in Plaza Moriones. With a majestic iron grille that separates the public end of the plaza from the hustle and bustle of the street, the couple and their guests can enjoy privacy while in the midst of their celebrations. More importantly, the plaza has gorgeous accents that would contribute to your wedding’s overall aesthetic such as a stone bridge that crosses over a narrow moat as well as a massive arched portal that cuts through thick stone fortifications. In any case, this promenade is perfect for couples who wish to give their wedding a 19th century feel. With its wide expanse of greenery, the venue provides a majestic view of the historic Fort Santiago gate and can seat and accommodate up to 500 guests. 

BALUARTE DE SAN DIEGO GARDENS

Back in the day, Baluarte de San Diego served as a bulwark that defended its land as well as its stories of the past. Today, it has proved that it stood the test of time and remained as one of the exciting and magnificent remnants in the historic city of Intramuros. Originally meant to protect the metropolis from enemies during the Spanish occupation, Baluarte de San Diego has now evolved to become one of Intramuros’ most beloved wedding venues. With a seating capacity of 800-1000 persons, it is the perfect wedding reception venue for anyone who wishes to have a grandiose and majestic wedding with many invitees. While it mostly serves as a reminder of the many events that transpired in the city of Intramuros, it also makes for the perfect backdrop for couples who wish to give their weddings a rustic and historical veneer.

FATHER BLANCO’S GARDEN 

Just located near the Manila Cathedral and the Monastery of San Agustin, Father Blanco’s Garden is an ideal wedding reception venue for couples who wish to opt for something beautiful while rusting that is in proximity to not just one, but two churches. This eerily beautiful spot is peppered with a myriad of palm trees and walkways that make it the perfect place for a scenic garden wedding. Built by the Father of Botany in the Philippines himself, Father Manuel Blanco, the garden no longer resembles what it once originally looked like as it was destroyed during the World War II. However, it has since then been rebuilt in the year 1991, and although the original garden no longer stands, this new garden retains the mystique and beauty of the old one. 

PUERTO REAL GARDENS

Another beautiful wedding venue in Intramuros City that plays up the rustic theme is Puerta Real Gardens. Located just past the Juan Luna Monument, this venue is quite unlike anything that you will ever find in the metropolis. It sits just right in front of the main entrance to the Intramuros complex and has a drawbridge that allows visitors to cross a small body of water—a moat if you may. In this regard, Puerta Real Gardens might just be the most picturesque wedding venue that has wonderfully incorporated rustic and historical themes and aspects. In a sense, being in this place makes you feel like you have been transported to another time, which gives your wedding reception a different touch and ambiance. 

PLAZA SAN LUIS COMPLEX

Plaza San Luis Complex is perhaps the only wedding venue with the most accurate representation of Spanish colonial architecture. For most couples, this alone is a plus that would entice them to hold their wedding ceremonies and receptions in this very same place. It is one of the most beautifully historic places in Intramuros that has survived and revived into a well-maintained establishment. One of the venue’s key features is its gorgeous courtyard that up until today has retained its old-world feel and ambiance. Incidentally, the courtyard—with its stone walls and floors, fountain and variation of plants, is where most weddings occur. Indeed, if you are looking for a venue that gives your event just the right tinge of Spanish history and aesthetic, Plaza San Luis is your best choice.

INDOOR WEDDING VENUES

Holding a wedding in Intramuros inevitably means that a couple wishes to take advantage of its beautiful Spanish colonial architecture as well as its distinct rustic vibe. For many, this means taking the wedding ceremony and reception outdoors where the hollowed and ancient walls of the city can bear witness to their vows and promise to eternity. Unfortunately, there are some months in the year wherein the weather is not exactly favorable for outdoor events and celebrations. In this regard, it is best if the couple opts for an indoor wedding venue (or at least have one in contingency) so as to ensure that come rain or shine, the event pushes through. 

PALACIO DE MANILA

While Palacio De Manila is not exactly located in Intramuros City itself, it is not considerably far from the historical city. The events place is specifically designed to house events of all kinds and seats around (400-500 people), making it the perfect choice for mediums sized events such as weddings. Although it lacks the cobblestone paths of Intramuros, the venue compensates for it in its magnificent view of the picturesque Manila Bay. As the venue is located strategically and conveniently in Malate and along Roxas Boulevard, it should come as no question that the Manila Bay is within view. 

    THE PERGOLA

The Pergola is an events venue located in Pasay City that offers a myriad of packages for any event—weddings included! Located in the highly famed and accessible CCP compound, this pillar-less, and fully airconditioned venue can seat up to 400 guests. For couples who have accessibility and convenience in mind, La Pergola Verde is the perfect choice at it can be accessed through major thoroughfares including Roxas, Macapagal Blvds., EDSA and Pablo Ocampo as well as Gil J. Puyat Avenue. It has a seating capacity of at least 200-350 guests (400 if buffet stations are situated in the garden). More importantly, this unique octagon-shaped reception hall comes with a lush tropical garden, a spacious terrace, scenic waterfall as well as a garden trellis which all in all would make for a charming and beautiful wedding atmosphere. 

THE MARQUIS EVENTS PLACE

Located in the heart of where everything happens, The Marquis Events Place is an events place in BGC that promises an inspiring venue for your dream wedding reception. Apart from offering a range of packages for all sorts of events, the Maquis is a 1000 seater events place for your premium and bespoke wedding celebration. For couples who wish to give their events an imaginative and creative touch, this is the perfect venue with some ballrooms having interiors inspired by origami and a thousand folded cranes. Indeed, if you wish to give your wedding that distinct feel, this is the place to be. 

VILLA IMMACULADA DE MANILA

Located in General Luna St. Metro Manila, Villa Immaculada is one of the preferred wedding venues in Intramuros mainly for its popular catering services. A sister company of the popular Tamayo’s Catering Services, Villa Immaculada’s packages including catering to a number of guests which already tackles two wedding suppliers in one go and for a lot cheaper than if booked separately. More importantly, as the venue is located at the back of Manila Cathedral, the venue is easily accessible to couples who wish to wed there. Villa Immaculada is perfect for giving your wedding event a classic and elegant feel amidst the historical city of Intramuros.

LOTUS GARDEN HOTEL

The Lotus Garden Hotel promises a wide range of ballrooms and function rooms that can seat anywhere from 50-200 guests. Perfect for couples who are looking for a modern, elegant and minimalist design, Lotus Garden Hotel promises to be your partner in making exceptional and unforgettable memories. The ballrooms are complete with audio-visual facilities and are spacious as well as pillar-less. With a variety of packages to offer, couples can easily find what falls within their budget. 

Indeed, wedding events are joyful occasions that should be commemorated appropriately, and the first step to doing just that is to book the right venue for you and your wedding guests. Take note: A wedding location plays a pivotal role in keeping your guests happy. In this regard, choose an ideal location—one that satisfies your needs as well as goes a long way in ensuring that everyone arrives and leaves happy. After all, your wedding is probably the momentous event you will ever get to celebrate in life, so why not look for a venue that contributes to making it happen? 

The post Beautiful Weddings: Ten Romantic Wedding Venues near Intramuros appeared first on Hizon's Catering.

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There has never been really any doubt that where you book your wedding venue determines not only the success of your event but the logistics as well. 

In the Philippines, affianced couples can take their pick from a wide selection of wedding venue options. Most couples—particularly those who wish to have a rather extensive guest list –tend to favour expansive hotel ballrooms and spacious functions halls above all venue options (given the size of their event). However, regardless of this, there remains a certain whimsical charm about weddings that take place in lush gardens and picturesque courtyards. After all, the latter venue tends to be more versatile when it comes to accommodating a myriad of wedding themes and motifs. 

In this regard, wedding venues such as Los Arcos de Hermano and the like have been gaining a lot of popularity among engaged couples who wish to have a medium-sized event without sacrificing the allure of a garden or outdoor aesthetic. Apart from the natural allure garden wedding venues offers couples, it also gives them the avenue of mitigating wedding décor expenses given that garden venues are already naturally beautiful and would only require sparse décor items to make a significant impact. After all, booking a garden wedding venue would mean being surrounded by verdant greens, vibrant flowers and picturesque landscape leaving next to nothing for the décor team to improve which consequently allows the couple to save on elaborate and complex décor schemes. 

As the Philippines is lauded for being one of the countries in the world abundant in natural resources, it should come as no question that it would be the country with the most scenic wedding venues (beaches and lush gardens included). So, if you have ever dreamt of an idyllic place to exchange your vows in the Philippines, know that one of your best options would be a garden wedding. In any case, here is a list of the perfect garden wedding venues that will not only allow you to celebrate your big day in the best way possible but also set the perfect mood and ambience. 

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 Los Arcos de Hermano

Situated in the boundary of Bulacan and the metropolis is a fan-favourite among affianced couples designated as Los Arcos de Hermano. A venue for all sorts of events an occasions, Los Arcos de Hermano, is a garden resort that is conducive to a myriad of activities—from office team-building endeavours, school or family outings to the perfect wedding venue. With a bridal suite and ecumenical chapel, this venue has everything you need to make your dream wedding come to life. 

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Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila 

As one of the 5-star luxury resorts in Metro Manila, it should come as no question that Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila would be one of the most sought-after garden wedding venues in Central Luzon. Regardless of the size of your event, the sprawling grounds of this resort will undoubtedly make your wedding an affair to remember. Apart from the convenient access this wedding venue affords you and your guests, it affords your event the distinct aesthetic of having the afternoon sunset cascade over the waters of Manila Bay making it one of the picturesque wedding venues to serve as a backdrop during the precise moment you say your own vows and I dos. 

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Taal Vista Hotel

Couples who wish to have the globally famous Taal Lake and volcano serve as a gorgeous wedding backdrop on their big day should definitely consider booking a venue in Tagaytay. Known as one of Tagaytay’s most popular wedding venues, Taal Vista Hotel offers you a generous and unobstructed view of the Taal Lake. Inspired by rustic elements, the hotel’s perfectly manicured lawns would make the ideal spot for outdoor celebrations regardless of whether you choose to have your wedding reception during the day and against the wash of daylight or at night and under a canopy of stars.

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El Kabayo 

Known for being a weekend destination more than anything, El Kabayo might not be the first on your list when it comes to selecting a wedding reception venue. However, El Kabayo’s charm is rooted in the fact that simply being in the place makes you feel like you are in a cowboy movie. In this regard, couples who wish for a distinct and unconventional wedding theme might find this wedding venue appropriate. Beyond El Kabayo’s rough and adventurous ambience though are the rustic landscapes that add to the overall aesthetic of a typical outdoor wedding. El Kabayo, albeit a favourite long-weekend destination, might just be the next favourite romantic wedding venue. 

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Angelfields Nature Sanctuary 

Giving your weddings a touch of rural sophistication is made possible by booking your wedding in Angelfields Nature Sanctuary. Located in Silang, Cavite, this wedding venue is within a reasonable distance from the city without the cramped and stuffy feeling of major metropolitans. Known for its stylish rural setting complemented by the cold breeze, the place adds an instant romantic touch to your wedding event. 

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Sitio Elena 

One of the best things about Sitio Elena is its lush and picturesque landscapes. Known for their serene scenery and fresh air more than anything else, Sitio Elena has remained a crowd favourite among affianced couples looking to book an outdoor wedding view. With their verdant gardens and a lush copse of trees, tying the knot in this place is definitely nothing short of magical and enchanting.

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Balesin Island Club 

Couples who wish to splurge on their wedding venue and are prioritizing intimacy and privacy over anything else should definitely consider booking Balesin Island Club. This 500-hectare private paradise situated in Mauban Quezon caters exclusively to its members and will no doubt meet your expectations when it comes to making your dream wedding come true. 

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Casa San Pablo 

Located in Laguna, Casa San Pablo is an inspired quaint country inn that would no doubt delight your wedding attendees. Catering to a wide range of themes and motifs, the wedding venue is guaranteed to accommodate your vision—regardless of whether you are planning a modern, vintage, whimsical, or chic wedding theme. 

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Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan 

Beach weddings are best held in Cebu. Hailed as the Queen City of the South, Cebu has a myriad of beach resorts that would make perfect locations for wedding ceremonies and/or receptions. One of the best beach resorts Cebu has to offer is Crimson Resort and Spa, which has a stunning and gorgeous garden landscape that opens right to the white sandy beach. Inspired mostly by Balinese elements, couples will find that having their wedding in this location is not quite like just any conventional weddings they have ever witnessed. If you cannot decide between a garden and a beach wedding, why not do both and consider Crimson Resort? 

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Club Punta Fuego 

Tropically inspired, Club Punta Fuego is one of the perfect wedding spots in Batangas where you can view the golden sunset. Apart from that, it is said to have the best beach in Batangas for which the resort has earned its designation as a world-class resort. While it might take you more than just a couple of hours to reach the venue, this tropical treasure is well worth the trip and effort and will certainly make your wedding unforgettable. 

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 La Mesa Eco Park 

La Mesa Eco Park has quite a lot of activities for visitors to enjoy, but apart from that, it is an excellent wedding venue as well. With the thick copse of trees complemented by the fresh air and colourful flowers, this 33-hectare public park in Fairview, Quezon City might just be the perfect place for you to exchange your wedding vows. 

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Antonio’s Restaurant

Antonio’s Restaurant is one of Tagaytay’s most-sought-after garden wedding venues insomuch that you have to book your events a year in advance. Apart from the charmingly romantic setting and ambience the place offers, the venue offers comprehensive wedding services that would include wedding styling as well as catering. In this regard, you will have everything you need at the venue itself. 

Garden weddings are known for their natural aesthetic. After all, the natural lighting complemented by the natural décor of verdant trees and lush vegetation would make for truly great photos. More importantly, it is one of those venue options that would do well both as a wedding ceremony and reception venue, which can significantly mitigate your expenses if you are on a budget. Wherever you choose to have your big day, be sure that you will find a place that is special to you and your partner regardless of whether it is a garden, beach or indoor wedding. 

Find more wedding venues within your area here.

The post Beautiful Garden Reception Venues in the Philippines appeared first on Hizon's Catering.

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Planning a wedding is no easy feat.

Attempting to plan and execute your wedding is even harder. From the get-go, the logistics of designing your wedding can feel a little overwhelming. There is quite a lot to consider, and with so many things to take into account, it can be pretty confusing as to where to start. In this regard, most brides-to-be would instead hire professionals to take care of the wedding planning that does it themselves. However, it has shown that planning your wedding can be rewarding and fulfilling. More importantly, it gives you better leverage over the planning process insomuch that you can decide on even the little aspects of your event. However, if you are unsure as to whether you should plan your wedding, here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of doing your event planning.

For a seamless wedding planning experience, avail of Hizon’s wedding packages that already comes with the wedding catering as well as a wedding coordinator.

ADVANTAGES OF PLANNING YOUR OWN WEDDING

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Creating the Wedding of Your Dreams

One of the most significant advantages of planning your wedding is that you can make it look as precisely as you want it to look. In essence, planning a wedding by yourself gives you better creative leverage on the nitty-gritty details that would have otherwise to the professionals. In this regard, you can consider every aspect carefully and spend however much time and money you only wish to.

Keep track of where your money goes.

Planning your wedding allows you to keep tabs on where your money should go. More importantly, it gives you better control as to which elements to splurge on and which ones to skimp. As a result, you will be able to decide better which aspects are most important to you for your big day.

You can DIY

Crafty brides-to-be can save a lot of money by creating their centerpieces, decorations, invitations and whatever else they can think of. By going the DIY route, brides would be able to save on wedding expenses and create a wedding that is unique and personalized.

Flexibility

As you are operating on your timeline, you are at liberty to do wedding planning tasks as you wish. Your wedding planning timeline is not bound to a deadline, so if you are not in any rush, there is no need for you to stress over getting everything done within a specific timeframe. Planning your wedding allows you to do more thorough research and even change your mind along the way without complications.

DISADVANTAGES OF PLANNING YOUR OWN WEDDING

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Time Consuming

Undoubtedly, planning your wedding takes a lot of time and effort. With this in consideration, planning your very own wedding is pretty much like a part-time job (or even a full-time one if you do not have much time to prepare). More importantly, as you need to ensure that everything is taken care of and every aspect has adequately addressed, you would need to dedicate many hours of work which means this is pretty much impossible for someone with a full-time job.

Potentially Costly

While planning your wedding allows you to cut costs on expenses, you might end up having to fork more cash than you would have had you partnered up with a professional. Wedding planners have been in the industry for years insomuch that they have deals with the suppliers and retailers they work with. In this regard, they can give you various discounts on decors, flowers, photo booths and the like.

Requires precision and diligence

Planning your wedding is no easy feat. As you are overseeing everything on your own, it can be difficult to pick out every single detail involved in the process. In this regard, you have to be meticulous as well as organized if you wish to have everything go your way. Your timeline might be flexible, but if you want to have everything completed on time, then you need to operate with a strict deadline.

Stress

Planning an elaborate and significant event such as a wedding is undoubtedly going to stress you out. As the bride-to-be, you would want everything to meet and satisfy your expectations. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Deadlines will be missed; plans are waylaid, your wedding caterer might have a few hiccups—these are just a few of the issues you might come across. For someone planning her wedding, a myriad of problems can be a tad bit overwhelming insomuch that the stress can take the joy of organizing your wedding away. So, weigh your options and determine whether the sole responsibility of planning your wedding is something you are capable of handling.

To minimize stress, avail of Hizon’s wedding packages that include both the catering for your event as well as your very own wedding coordinator.

STEPS IN PLANNING YOUR OWN WEDDING

Getting Started

Make the announcement

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So, you just got engaged and are ready to share your big news with your family and friends. However, before putting your engagement on blast in social media platforms, let both of your parents know through a phone call or if possible in person. You might even want to tell some of your closest chums in person as well before declaring your affianced status online. Having your parents and closest friends know about your engagement through social media can feel somewhat detached. Plus, they would appreciate the gesture so much better if you broke the news to them first before anyone else.

Find inspiration from dreams.

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Now that you are engaged it is time to be entertaining ideas for your wedding. Find time to sit down and talk with your fiancé and delve into your dreams. Know what both of you want and compromise on aspects and details you cannot agree. Determine what kind of wedding you want without discussing any financial information just yet.

Sketch out a timeline

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You might want to enjoy your newly engaged status for a while before deciding on a wedding date. However, while you do not have to set a fixed time now, it would be wise to have a rough idea of what month you want to marry in. By knowing approximately what month or date you want to marry in, you can figure out how long you have to get things organized and underway. More importantly, it is a good idea to determine what kind of wedding you have as your wedding size will dictate where you should appropriately hold the party. More importantly, it gives you an idea of how much it would roughly cost. In this regard, you and your fiancé should start making a list which you can later refine and condense as you progress through your wedding planning. For now, this should serve as your base.

Determine and delineate your budget

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Have the money talk and ask your fiancé how much they are willing to spend on this wedding. Similarly, you should ask yourself how much you can contribute to making this wedding happen. From there, you can ask both sets of parents if they are willing to assist.

Organize

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Now that you have the sharp details figured out, it is time to get organized! Buy a notebook or designate a folder in your computer solely for wedding planning. Separate it into sections for each budget category so that you would be able to track them down better. More importantly, it makes it easier for you to note down your expenses so that by the time you are near your limits, you can figure out ways to cut the costs.

Selecting a Venue

Look for an officiant and a place to get married.

Determine what kind of ceremony you want, and from there you can work your way to finding an officiant for your celebration. In this regard, determine if you wish to hold your wedding on a beach, a house of worship or your hometown. Take note: The logistics of your marriage would depend on the kind of ceremony you wish to have. Destination weddings are trickier to plan and would require you to ask your prospective wedding guests beforehand if they can travel and make it on your wedding day.

Find a reception venue.

After you have locked in on a venue for your wedding ceremony, you need to look for your wedding reception venue unless you plan on holding the reception in the same place as your wedding ceremony. However, if you intend on having a different reception venue, then you would need to go back to the drawing board and think of your wedding dreams and how you can execute them in reality. Do you want an outdoor garden reception?

If so, you need to consider other variables such as the possible weather on your wedding day. In any case, it would be wise to discuss a wide range of options before zeroing on one. In this regard, you would then have a list of alternatives at your disposal should your venue prove to be inadequate or inappropriate for the season you wish to get married. Schedule your visits to these places and begin narrowing down your options and condensing your list.

Finding and Hiring Suppliers

Know what you need

Each wedding is unique, and in this regard, you can expect to have a different set of services for yours. Your dream wedding might be something a little more practical and unassuming insomuch that you would only require only the barest essentials. Similarly, if you wish for a minimalist wedding, then it is likely that you are not going to need as many suppliers as a conventional one. With this in mind, identify what elements you wish to be present at your wedding and start considering vendors from there.

Research and Compare Prices

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Not all suppliers are going to have the same prices. As the person behind the wedding planning, you need to be a little smart about who you choose to hire. Some suppliers might come in cheap but do not possess the necessary expertise you want while there are some that are priced at a premium but can guarantee quality execution in your visions. With this in mind, it is your responsibility to scour potential suppliers online and look for the ones with the best fit.

Caterer

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Of utmost importance is the food you are going to serve to your wedding guests, so you need to find an appropriate wedding caterer for your event. In choosing a caterer, take extra care to include dishes that are vegan-friendly as well as dishes that the kids would enjoy. More importantly, you would want to know how the recipes would taste like so it is imperative to conduct a menu sampling beforehand. Also, do not be afraid to bargain and negotiate with your caterer as most of them are flexible with their prices and menus. To cut costs, you can limit the number of hors-d’oeuvres they serve during your cocktail hour.

Photographer and Videographers

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If you want to book the best ones for your wedding day, make sure to schedule a meeting with them months in advance. As they are the known experts in the field, it would be understandable if their schedules are full. In this regard, you better make your bookings early to ensure that they can still save you a slot. However, regardless of their reputation and expertise, it is always best to take a gander at their catalog and observe their style in covering previous weddings. Is their artistic interpretation up to speed? More importantly, does it align with yours? These are two questions you need to consider before hiring a photographer and videographer.

Flowers and Décor

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To know what kind of flowers and decors you should have for your wedding day, you need to determine what type of wedding theme you would want for yourself first. Put that against the reception site you have booked and envision the kind of table arrangements and other decorations you would like to have. Beach weddings typically require minimal decorations as the scenery itself already serves as a backdrop. Hotel ballrooms, however, would require more decorating as it is relatively a blank canvass you would need to fill up.

Musicians

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There are no weddings without music. In this regard, booking your musicians is of the utmost importance in your wedding planning as well. Decide whether you want a DJ or a band for your wedding reception and arrange to hear them perform before signing them on. More importantly, they need to agree to stick the playlist you have created and ensure that they would not take any creative liberties when performing unless asked. Ask how they will be dressed and determine how many breaks they will receive and consider those.

Selecting Your Bridal Entourage

Selecting your bridal entourage is part of the planning process.  Knowing who your bridesmaids are, who your maid of honor will be and the like form part of this process. For a more exhaustive and comprehensive bridal entourage selection process, check this article out.

Tips on finding your bridesmaids

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Before curating a wedding entourage and asking your friends to be your bridesmaids, determine how many bridesmaids you want and afford. Ideally, brides would shoulder the bridesmaid’s dress, hair, and makeup but there have been weddings wherein the bridesmaids themselves have offered to pay for their attire. In any case, know what you can afford and then begin the selection process with these tips:

• Contemplate and think clearly before asking anyone. Take your time in deciding and do not ask away the moment you are engaged.
• Ask your fiancé if they have anyone they would want to participate in your bridal entourage. Similarly, ask them if you can enlist some of your male friends as his groomsmen as well.
• Be sure to include family members in your bridal entourage—both from the groom and bride’s side.
• Research other roles as you cannot realistically expect every single female friend you have to be a bridesmaid. In this regard, consider different roles other than being a bridesmaid
• Set expectations and let your bridal entourage know what is required of them on the wedding day. If they agree then enlist them. However, if some of them cannot deliver then be sure to have an alternative in mind.

Tips in Choosing a Maid of Honor

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• Make sure all the candidates you have considered understand the kind of responsibility being a maid of honor entails. Ideally, it should be someone you feel closest to or who knows you best.
• Never be pressured into a decision or into making one. Take as much time as you wish and choose your maid of honor only when you are ready.
• Evaluate fairly and consider your options as well before arriving at a decision. Do not be swayed by fancy gifts given to win your favor.
• Go with your gut. Our intuitions know best, so you would do well to follow them.
• If you cannot decide between two individuals, enlist both of them as your maid of honor. It is your wedding after all; you get to call the shots.

Choosing and Buying Your Wedding Gown

Be impartial (Take the emotion out of the equation)

To make the wedding gown selection process more manageable, always keep in mind that you are operating within a budget. To ensure that you do not break your heart by falling in love with a wedding gown beyond what you can reasonably afford, ask the staff to show you a selection of dresses within a certain price range. Enlist the help of a close friend who can help you with this step and would be able to aid you in remaining level-headed as you shop for your dress. Remember, choose what is within the bounds of your budget and is practical for the kind of wedding you want to have.

Take note of your venue’s dress code.

The style and cut of your dress should depend on your venue’s dress code. While you are free to choose any dress as you please for garden and beach weddings, the same cannot be for places of worship. Typically, churches do not allow certain wedding gown types and styles to maintain the bride’s modesty. If you wish to get married in these venues, you need to respect and adhere to the dress code. However, to be sure what is allowed and what is not, you should coordinate with the officiant and ask what the dress code is.

Setting up a budget

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Wedding budgets, no matter how meticulously planned, have a sneaky way of ballooning before you even realize it. To ensure that you do not go over your limit and have enough room for unexpected incidentals and must-haves, here are some of the things you can do to curb your potential expense:

Borrowing

You do not have to buy everything brand new. If your sister has a particularly lovely tiara, you would like to wear or if your best friend has killer shoes that you wish to rock with your wedding gown then, by all means, ask to borrow them! Remember, spending should be your last resort. If it can be borrowed, exhaust all means to get that piece of accessory before opting to buy it.

Utilizing DIY

If you have a creative streak and have relatives or friends with more or less the same talent, ask for their help in making decorations. To cut costs, you can opt to DIY some elements and aspects of your wedding such as the invitations and centerpieces. This labor of love can serve as their wedding gifts to you.

Create a signature drink

Instead of hiring a mobile bar and purchasing a myriad of drinks, opt to have one signature cocktail instead. In this regard, you can significantly cut down liquor costs and mitigate the possibility of having way too many drunk wedding guests. Alternatively, you can buy cases of wine at wholesale price and serve just that.

Tone down the wedding décor expenses

Understandably, you would want your wedding venue brought to its full aesthetic potential. However, this does not mean that your expense should bloom beyond what is necessary. The tone has done the decors and opts for alternatives instead of utilizing just flowers. Sure, foliage centerpieces may look attractive, but you can achieve the same effect with a combination of fewer flowers, candles, and another décor.

Avoid buying on impulse

Once you have everything, you need then stop shopping for more. If you have everything in your essentials list covered and see something to your fancy, you might want to put them down. Do not buy anything that is not on your list.

Draft your guest list

Who to invite

Your guest list plays a pivotal role in determining your overall expense. In this regard, you have to be very exacting as to who you should invite—especially if a strict budget constraint you. Remember, there is no need to ask everyone you know if you do not feel a special connection with them. After all, this is your day (and you are paying), so you should have a say on your final headcount.

Picking out sponsors

From your guest list, pick out your wedding sponsors. Your wedding sponsors can be as many or as few as you wish. However, keep in mind that these are the individuals who have had some mentorship role over you where they offered you guidance. These are the people who would likely provide you with sagely marital advice and would be the one to witness your union.

Scale down your final headcount

By now, your rough approximate for your wedding guests can still be amended. As early as a month prior, ask your prospective wedding guests whether they can make it to your wedding and indicate how many seats you have reserved for them. Some of your guests might not be able to RSVP or even make it so you can refine and condense your guest list accordingly.

Sending out invitations

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When to send out wedding invitations

Typically, wedding invitations are sent six to eight weeks before the wedding as this timeframe gives guests plenty of time to clear their schedules. For wedding guests out of town, this is enough time to make travel arrangements. However, modern weddings have created a way to announce the day of their marriage before sending out formal invitations. To give your wedding guests a heads up as regards your wedding day, you and your fiancé can create a save the date video which you can then use to announce your wedding date to your guests. Create a social media page where your prospective guests would be included so that they can direct all their questions there. Similarly, they can see all announcements in a consolidated platform which is a lot easier and more convenient for them.

Tips in creating your wedding invitation

• Define your wedding style as this should be reflected in the kind of invitation to your wedding. Include pertinent details such as the time, date, venue and the dress code.
• More importantly, indicate how many seats are reserved. Know your colors and incorporate this into your wedding invitation. If you wish, you can utilize your wedding theme and motif in creating your wedding invitations as a subtle hint to your guests.
• Do not crowd the card. Be sure to include only the essential details and avoid adding way too much information.
• Always ask your guests to RSVP and remind them of the wedding invitation. This helps you determine your final guest count.

Wedding day hair and Makeup

Plan an exercise and fitness regimen

You want to look your best on your wedding day, but your dress and makeup would only serve to enhance your aesthetic. In this regard, you need to work on the foundation yourself. With this in mind, have an exercise and fitness regimen if you are planning to shed off some pounds before the big day. Make sure that it is a realistic goal and routine so that you can commit to sticking to it.

Get adequate rest

Planning your wedding might be hard work, but you need to get rest as well. Do not skimp on sleep as it might compromise your overall health and immunity leading to sickness. You do not want to get sick anytime now—especially when you are only weeks or even days away from your big day. Get enough rest as you will look your best this way.

Look for a hairstylist

You might want a new look for your wedding, but you need to have a hairstylist that you can rely on. Be sure that you are already well aware of their work and are comfortable with it as you would not want to have an unwanted surprise sprung on you on your wedding day. If you are planning to use accessories, bring them over and ask your hair stylist to practice them on you. Alternatively, you can try a series of hairdos and choose the one that looks best with your headpiece, dress, and veil.

Practice your makeup

To ensure that you will be happy with your look on your wedding day, have a makeup artist do a test run on you. Experiment with different looks and go with the one that suits you best.

OTHER USEFUL TIPS

• Set a budget and commit to sticking to it.
• Hire a caterer with free event coordinating services. In this way, you hit two birds with one stone and only at a single expense.
• Create a list of priorities so that you would know which elements and aspects would demand more of your time and which ones require immediate attention.
• Always include your fiancé in every step of the planning process. Remember, the wedding is about the BOTH of you.
• Create a master checklist. Refer to this list every single time you have accomplished a wedding planning task.
• Decide on one wedding style and let that dictate the rest.
• Limit your options. Appreciate what is out there but do not consider every single one of them or you are going to end up overwhelmed and unfocused.
• Draw inspiration online. In this regard, have a vision board filled with the things you like and try to find a common theme among them. From there, you can create a unique concept of your own.
• Do not rush into decisions. Sure, you might be working under a strict timeline but take your time and contemplate before deciding on something. After all, you do not want to end up regretting what you chose when you could have had something better and for a fraction of the price you paid.

Planning your wedding might not be an easy feat, but it is a doable one. However, keep in mind that to mitigate costs and expenses, you need to be shrewd in creating your budget. More importantly, you need to commit to this project to make it happen. Executing your wedding plans and visions might not be the easiest thing to do, but it is one of the most fulfilling and rewarding things you can ever experience.

The post A Step-by-Step Guide to Planning Your Own Wedding appeared first on Hizon's Catering.

Regardless of whether you are planning a first or 7th birthday program, scheduling a list of activities for your kid’s party is actually not that difficult.  Ideally, you should book a venue for the said party to take place. Take note of your invitees and how many guests you wish to attend. Small group parties are possible to have at home but for bigger ones that have more attendees, it might be more appropriate to book them elsewhere such as The Blue Leaf Events Venue or someplace else. Once you already have your venue locked down, you need to come up with an idea of the activities you want to do and how you want the event to go. From there, everything will fall into place easily.

But before you make a schedule of your birthday program, you need to know a few things first:

1) Duration of the party – The most ideal duration for a kids’ party is 2 to 3 hours. This is to avoid the children from getting bored and to avoid the party from getting out of control and stray from the program. Usually, this is also the ideal duration for your suppliers and host since some of them still have another event to attend to for the next hour.

2) Time of the party – The most ideal time block for a kids’ party during weekends is from 11am to 2pm. You wouldn’t want to invite your guests at 12nn for your party because at that time, they’ll already be expecting to eat lunch. This is also an ideal time for your host and suppliers before preparing for the afternoon events.

Now that you have an idea of the perfect time and duration to set for your party, here’s a standard program that we made to guide you in finalizing the program for your kid’s party

Sample 7th Birthday Program

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Head out to our blog for more tips and guides on planning your kids’ party.

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Co-author: Jme Gonzalez, Vice President and Production Head of Party Links Events Corp. (920-0966, 0922-829-6980, customer@partylinksevents.com)

Image credit: Blog.Xuite.Net

The post Making a Scheduled Program for Your Kid’s Party appeared first on Hizon's Catering.

As with any momentous occasions in life, weddings require the need for tasteful décor in order to bring the event to its fullest potential. It may even be argued that wedding decors are not so much of a bride’s option as a wedding necessity. After all, décors do not only involve a color scheme and a choice of carefully arranged flowers, they dictate the venue’s aesthetic and command the event’s overall ambiance. In this regard, weddings sans décor would be quite a boring event. As wedding decorations would help you in creating a unique wedding theme that is personal to both you and your husband-to-be, it pays to give it extra attention and focus during the wedding planning. More importantly, your choice in wedding decorations is considered a pivotal aspect in your big day insomuch that it decides the quality of your event and contributes to making your wedding memorable. So, determine what you want and thoroughly research your options to come up with the best aesthetic for your big day.

If you are looking for wedding decoration ideas to incorporate in your wedding plans, take a gander at the list below for various inspirations you can surely use on your wedding day:  

Wedding Aisle Decoration Ideas

Walking down the aisle is one of the most-awaited anticipated moments on your wedding day. Of course, you would want everyone’s attention focused on you as you make your way to the altar. However, you do need to set up the stage for you walk tastefully enough that it enhances the flair and drama of your entrance instead of overwhelming it and detracting attention from you. You want to be careful with your choice of decors and choose only those that would give the aisle just the right panache to complement your walk to the altar. Here are some ideas:  

Custom Aisle Runner  

Making a statement and a splash on your wedding day would be possible with a customized graphic runner. Instead of the drab and predictable typically red aisle runner, opt for something that makes more of an impact. You can customize it to not only include your names and wedding date, but you have a myriad of prints to choose from which would then complement just about any and every kind of ceremony décor.  

Floral Chair Tails

If you have always wanted a whimsical ceremony that would rival fairytale romances, use floral chair tails as wedding aisle decorations and give your walk down the aisle more drama.  Globe string lights If you are holding your ceremony outdoors at dusk, you can light up your walk by using globe string lights as an aisle wedding décor. Alternatively, you may wish to weave them into a ceremony arch to make those wedding kiss photos pop.  

Statuesque Vases

While this kind of aisle décor has seen in most wedding, it does get the job done of creating a beautiful ambiance for your walk down the aisle. Choose embellished vases positioned at the ends of your corridor to make a more striking and powerful impact.  

Geometric Vases

If you wish to go minimalist on your wedding decors all the while giving it a modern touch, incorporate prism-shaped or wire-wrought vases which can hold either candles or flowers. Cluster these at the end of the aisle or suspend them on your wedding arch for a more dramatic effect.

LED Candles  

If you have always had a penchant for giving your aisle that warm glow of flickering candlelight sans the potential hazard (to your guests and your wedding dress) arrange remote-control or battery operated candles along with your walkway.  

Tastefully Strewn Petals  

If you wish your entry will be sprinkled with flower petals sans the expensive cost, opt to drizzle, silk rose petals along the aisle before the guests arrive. To make the effect even more dramatic, have your flower girl toss them as she makes her way down the aisle.  

Welcome Sign  

Give your guests a warm reception to your wedding ceremony by placing a wooden welcome sign placed near the aisle. Perfect for rustic themed weddings, this aisle décor just about sets the tone for a beautiful and romantic affair.

Brass Lanterns  

Regardless of whether you opt to line them on your wedding aisle or group them together or even strung overhead, mini metal lanterns have a way of giving your ceremony an elegant and sophisticated feel.

Hot Air Balloon Paper Lanterns  

If you wish to look for wedding decors that are genuinely out of the ordinary, choose paper lantern sets that complement your wedding theme and motif. Not only would this give your ceremony a fanciful feeling but it is a fashionable way to make a statement on your wedding.  

Wedding Guest Book Design Ideas

One of the ways to recall your wedding day is to take a look back at the well-wishes your wedding guests gave you on that day. Instead of having your guests sign the traditional wedding guest book, opt for something that is a little more personal and unique with these ideas below:

Vintage Atlas  

Opt for a more unconventional way of recalling your wedding guests by having them sign the pages of a vintage road atlas and then having them indicate the cities they are traveling from. Alternatively, they can opt to pitch in their suggestions of where you and your spouse should vacation to by signing on a list of countries they would have you visit.  

Painted Globe  

If you want something that can double up as a unique décor piece in your living room, have your guests sign a chalkboard painted globe. Afterward, you can use this as an accent in your living room or home office.  

Re-use Wine Bottles  

Instead of positioning your wedding guest book by the entrance where some of your guests can quickly forget to sign, station recycled wine bottles on each table at the reception and had your guests fill these with their messages. You can then open these in the future and reminisce about your wedding (and may even opt to open these on your golden anniversary).

Polaroids and Washi Tape

Make your wedding guest book unforgettable by having your wedding guests DIY it for you. Have your guests take funny photos with the Polaroid camera and then affix it to a scrapbook with washi tape. From there, they can dedicate short messages to you and your spouse.  

Advice Coasters  

Marital advice will always come in handy, and they are even more useful if they doubled up as nifty tableware. In this regard, have your guests dedicate you messages and marital advice on a piece of a coaster.  

The Sweetest Dictionary  

Have an unconventional way of recalling your wedding day by having your guests circle a word on a carefully placed dictionary that they think best describes both of you. If they wish to comment further, they can even add a little note in the margin.  

Shadowbox Art  

Have your guests sign wooden hearts and then have them drop it into a shadowbox and display it behind a thin pane of glass. If you think hearts are too cheesy, there are many alternative shapes for wooden tokens and frame styles. Look for one that best symbolizes the both of you.  

Modern Prints

Print a personalized monogram which could either be a photo of both you and your spouse or one that is more unconventional (such as your thumbprints). Ensure there is a lot of white space for your family and friends to sign and then hang it somewhere in your future home.  

Game Board  

Put a little spin into your game nights by choosing a game board that provokes the best memories. If you regularly have game nights, have your guests sign a game board or even game blocks such as Jenga or puzzle pieces. In this regard, you will remember all the warm memories you had on your big day when you bring them out and play.  

Snail Mail  

If you look forward to getting mail every single day, ask your wedding guests to sign postcards and designate a patient or indulgent relative or friend to mail a couple to you each week or month—whichever works.

Autographed Vinyl  

Are you and your spouse music enthusiasts? If you are, you should scour garage sales and find old albums which you can use for your guest book. Afterward, you have a unique piece of wall décor that provokes romantic feelings and memories every time you look at it.

Guided Questions  

If you wish to have your guests have a more active role in your new life together as a couple, give them a set of guided questions and then ask them to name your first pet, where you should live, etc.    

Holiday Décor  

Incorporate feelings of sentimentality in your annual holiday decoration by utilizing holiday decors as an alternative way to have your wedding guests dedicate messages to you. Provide your guests with paint markers where they can sign on Christmas balls and write messages for you.  

Date Night Inspiration

Save yourself the overwhelming confusion on what to do on date nights by having your wedding guests come up with suggestions for you. Collect a jar of date night ideas from your guests by having them signpost it and collecting it inside a mason jar.  

Nostalgic Notes  

If you are looking for a casual and humorous way to look back on your wedding day, provide your guests with a Mad Libs-style questionnaire, collect them after the wedding and turn them into a book, it is a fun way to reminisce about your big day and would make for an excellent coffee table book.  

Wedding Hanging Decors  

One of the predicted wedding trends for the year 2019 is hanging decors. While they have certainly been around for quite a while, hanging wedding decors give your wedding day extra drama and flair by pulling the eyes of your wedding guests up and skyward.  Here are some excellent ideas you can use:

Flowers  

You can never go wrong with flowers. Apart from giving your wedding venue a whimsical ambiance, hanging flowers make for an excellent floral backdrop which you and your guests can use for photos.  

Paper Lanterns  

If you wish to go with a rustic theme for your wedding, then incorporate paper lanterns in your reception area. They make for excellent alternative lighting options and would double as an accented décor.

Terrariums  

Give your wedding venue a sophisticated look by utilizing terrariums as hanging décor. While they might be unconventional, they have proven to be versatile. You can hang them as they are with only a simple candle inside or choose to fill them with flowers or even layers of rock and stone. Apart from being a classy wedding décor option, it provides for limitless customization choices.  

Crystal Garland  

For a more dramatic flair and classic ambiance, utilize crystal garlands as hanging wedding décor in your wedding venue. With the myriad of application techniques, you can do, the sparkling strands of gems and add to any of your décor pieces that need a little sparkle and glimmer.  

Tissue Pompoms  

Are you looking for wedding décor that is both beautiful and inexpensive? Then look no further than tissue pompoms! Tissue pompoms go bold and big in style without breaking the bank.

Ribbons  

While ribbons are often added as accents to bags or baskets, they can be the perfect décor to add personality to your wedding venue. As it comes in a variety of colors, you can choose that match your theme correctly.  

Feathers  

For a unique look that works seamlessly outdoors then try hanging feathers. Feathers come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors insomuch that they match almost every wedding theme there is.  

Flower Balls  

Break away from conventional wedding hanging decors by opting to bunch your flowers together to form into a ball. Instead of making the table centerpieces, choose to hang them instead.

Lanterns  

Take your wedding decors to a whole new level by choosing to hang your lanterns instead of making them as centerpieces and table decors. Apart from creating a stunning look, it also provides additional illumination to your venue—particularly if you are celebrating outdoors.  

Birdcages  

Hanging birdcages is an excellent way to inject a bit of flamboyance to your wedding event. As one of the more popular choices for wedding decors, birdcages come in almost every size and color. Even hanging just a few by your reception’s entrance would already give it enough sophistication and a dash of panache.   

String Lights  

String lights have come a long way from being regarded as favorite holiday décor. Today, it has been utilized as hanging and overhead decors to give wedding venues a rustic feel as well as a warm and inviting glow.

Mason Jars  

For a necessary condiment or beverage container, mason jars can be incredibly versatile insomuch that they can even be used as wedding decors. With this in mind, they can also be utilized as hanging décor to serve as makeshift chandeliers or even from chairs. Customize them to your theme and fill them up with flowers, lights, candles and so much more.  

Banners

Banners make for excellent additions in weddings with rustic themes. Apart from conveying sweet messages and displaying announcements, they would look great strewn above tables.

Doilies  

While they might be reminiscent of your old grandma’s décor in the living room, doilies make for excellent hanging décor additions in your wedding venue. Apart from giving your reception a classic touch, they can be utilized to enhance a country-side themed wedding.  

Wedding Décor Centerpiece Ideas

Opt for something a little different than merely plopping floral bouquets on your tables. After all, what makes a wedding venue beautiful is the little touches and eye-catching details that would ultimately culminate in a tastefully thought-of aesthetic. So, instead of simply letting the wedding catering staff apply their own decors, incorporate some of your own. Here are some of the alternative wedding centerpiece ideas you can utilize for your wedding reception:  

Sprawling Centerpieces

To make more of an impact, go big with your table centerpieces by utilizing sprawling and magnificent decors. Adorn your tables with cascading floral centerpieces such as big floral arrangements and the like.  

Orange Themed Centerpiece  

If you have autumn or fall for a wedding theme, then you might want to incorporate more orange tones to your wedding venue. To do this, arrange rows of oranges at the center of a table and insert occasional flowers here and there. Apart from adding a pop of color, this is one centerpiece which your guests can eat.  

Desert-Inspired Centerpieces  

Take a cue from beautiful sunsets and use them as inspiration for your desert-themed wedding. Mix verdant foliage with tea lights to dress up your tables and add the occasional chunk of wood as an accent.  

Bouncy Ball Centerpiece  

Couples who are young at heart will love this unique centerpiece. Fill a vase with bouncy balls to make for a more colorful and playful décor.

Lego Bowl Centerpiece

For a genuinely unique yet eye-catching centerpiece, fill a bowl with Lego and stick in a sweet chalkboard sign.  

Fishbowls  

Give your centerpieces a bit more life by adding something that is alive. Buy a bunch of goldfish from your local pet store and display them in a circular bowl with pebbles to match your décor. To ensure that you remain environment-friendly, be sure to release the fish to the sea after your wedding.  

Rainbow Centerpieces  

For rainbow-themed weddings, utilize colorful centerpieces by adding flowers of every imaginable color. However, to ensure that the centerpiece gets the attention it deserves to ensure that it is only decorated at the head of the table and the rest of the decors should remain monochrome.  

Grass Table Runner  

Who says that the only plant life you can use at your weddings will be flowers? Add some grass to your tables and use it as a runner to add drama to your meals.  

Upside Down Wine Glasses  

Reinvent your centerpieces by turning traditional ideas such as flipping wine glass centerpieces upside down. To make it pop, place flowers, marbles or other decors underneath the cup.

Glittery Wine Bottles

Recycle wine bottles and turn them into beautiful wedding table centerpieces by covering them in ombre glitter. Combine them with flowers and other plant life for maximum effect.

Painted Logs  

Rustic and contemporary vibe can be achieved by painting the ends of your logs in bright hues. Stack them up in the center of your table to serve as the main centerpiece.

Vintage Books  

Couples who love to read or have a dedicated library at home can put their books to good use by utilizing them as centerpieces. Showcase some of the darlings in your collection by putting them up for display as a table centerpiece. Who knows? It might serve as excellent conversation starters among your guests.

Game boards

Showcase your fun-loving side by utilizing game boards as centerpieces. Scrabble seems to be most apt for weddings as it allows you to spell out little messages for your guests to see.

While your wedding decorations do not have to cost you a lot, they do have to be personal and unique to you. More importantly, they should reflect your creative side as well as your uniqueness as a couple. With the myriad of wedding décor ideas above, you should be able to choose one that would suit the kind of wedding you wish to have.      

The post 50+ Wedding Decoration Ideas appeared first on Hizon's Catering.

For most girls, Debut is the most essential coming of age that calls out for celebration. 

It marks a momentous event and is more often than not accompanied by an elaborate celebration that would signify a woman’s transition from a girl into a woman. In this regard, many girls have regarded their eighteenth birthday as a momentous rite of passage wherein their introduction to the adult world is marked by a myriad of traditions to be done and executed during their debut party. For this reason, many girls (with some as young as five) would start dreaming about their debut party the moment they are made aware of it.  

As with any successful event, throwing a big debut celebration requires meticulous planning, smart budgeting, and precise timing. At the early stages of your debut planning, you would have to decide on a theme to ensure that the other aspects of your debut would fall into place seamlessly. More importantly, your concept dictates the elements of your party and centralizes them: from your dress to the décor and even to the menu. As identifying the motif and theme of your debut party is an integral aspect of your party planning, deciding what it is as early as you can is better. To help you arrive at a decision, here are some of the standard and major debut themes which you can take from followed by a list of debut ideas and games you can utilize during your party:   

   MAJOR DEBUT THEME IDEAS

Classic

If you are the type of girl who is a stickler for tradition, then you should go for a classic debut theme by utilizing only traditional elements and aspects of your celebration. Be that classy and elegant lady to be from your gown down to your event styling.

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Modern

If you pride yourself as a non-conformist with a penchant for themes that are more unconventional and contemporary, then you might want to give your debut celebrations a modern spin. Instead of following trends and sticking to tradition, opt to ditch the gown and opt for an elegant dress suit or even a unique outfit. Whatever you wish is entirely up to you so long as it is your debut after all.  

Boho Debut Theme  

Bohemian theme is a showcase of culture and interesting things the world has to offer, starting from clothes the debutante will be wearing it will probably give that aesthetic and comfort. Free-spirited girls who have a penchant for whimsical things should take their cue from boho inspired events like Coachella and celebrities like Vanessa Hudgens and Liza Soberano. Boho-inspired debuts are a lot less elaborate and more laid-back. Typically, bohemian debut parties draw inspiration from music festivals and events and usually held on secluded resorts and beaches.  

Fairy Tale Theme  

If your debut celebration themes are mainly about princess-y undertones and promises of Happily Ever After then a fairytale themed debut is just for you. Some of the things that resonate with fairy tale themed debuts are gorgeous ball gowns, crowns, bedecked arches, and storybook endings. With this in mind, channel your dreams into one grand and an elaborate party that a princess like you deserves.  Belle of Beauty and the Beasts cites a beautiful idea for your Debut party, show off your young, spirited and brave side by having this theme as your reference. 

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Personal Theme

A personal theme can be anything that your heart desires. It can be a combination of two or more ideas found in this list or an entirely new concept you have thought of. Regardless of what it is, the important thing is that it showcases who you are as a girl and as a woman. More importantly, your debut’s theme should be something you feel yourself resonating with.   

OTHER DEBUT THEMES

Crafty Theme   

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Instead of exclusively buying your party decors and favors, why not give it a personal touch by crafting them up yourselves? If you have the extra time and are willing to do the extra work, then you should put your creative side to work by coming up with unique and personalized debut decors and favors.

  
Alice in Wonderland Theme   

A girl who enters a portal to another world  full of fantastic and  extraordinary happenings, is the concept of Alice in Wonderland. Take your party guests into an entirely new and curious world with a matching long table for the Mad Hatter’s party. Stay true to your theme by turning your debut into a tea party bash. 

The Great Gatsby Theme   

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Take a trip back in time and have your guests dancing their hearts out in the Jazz era. To give your debut party that authentic roaring twenties feel,  incorporate aspects from the Great Gatsby party. Throw a party like Gatsby himself and go big with the glitter and confetti.

Polaroid Party

  
For a girl with an unceasing fondness of posting photos on Instagram, you should have a polaroid party. Similarly, girls who love taking picture perfect pictures with only the best filters should go with this theme.  You can build your do-it-yourself polariod wall where your guests can take a snap for their Instagram worthy photos. 

Parisian   

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If you have a flair for the romantic, then you can never go wrong with a Parisian theme. Add French accents to your party decors and combine two of your favorite colors to make the overall aesthetic of your debut party pop out. Oh, and you should never forget to dedicate a place of honor for the Eiffel tower. Ideally, this should be someplace where you and your guests can take photos.   

Fairy-Tale Theme   

For girls who love happily-ever-after endings, go with a Cinderella-like theme and incorporate all of the unique and classic elements of that particular fairytale.   

Old Hollywood Glamour Party   

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Who wouldn’t love to ramp walk with glam and feel that star studded aura? Go classic and bring out your inner Audrey Hepburn or other iconic female actresses in the past and go with an old Hollywood glam theme. To give your event a more vintage feel, ask your guests to dress up strictly either in black or white.   

Purple Enchanted Forest   

If you have a inclination for all things purple and a unique liking for anything magical, go with a purple enchanted forest theme. It combines both purple and anything enchanted which would consequently give you a debut party unlike any other.   

Red Riding Hood Black and Red Theme   

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As a gothic girl whose favorite colors are black and red, you do not want a debut that is affiliated with Halloween. Instead, apply them in a less inferior theme by going with a Red Riding hood motif. With this theme, you do not need to go too dark and still indulge the eerie girl in you.   

Black and White Theme   

If you wish to stand out and make a grand entrance, choose party decors and favors solely in black and white. Make a splash by arriving in a bold color such as dark red  or gold. For maximum effect, ask your guests to strictly follow the theme by coming in black or white clothing.  Expect to stand out and be a head turner once you showcase exclusive side on your party.    

Travel Theme   

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If you are a traveler or wish to see more of the world, then you should incorporate the travel theme in your debut. Choose your favorite landmarks all over the world and designate them as centerpieces.   

Garden Theme   

Have the sky of stars as your natural backdrop and potentially save on décor by choosing an outdoor venue. Take the party outside and enjoy the night sky. Bring your place to its full potential by utilizing paper lanterns or fairy lights.    

Marie Antoinette Theme   

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As a fan of the romantic Victorian era (or perhaps the French monarch herself), you should look no further than dressing up your debut venue in a Marie Antoinette theme. Apply Victorian plush accents to your party and be sure to utilize a lot of gold. For best results, gold and pastel colors work well together.   Make sure also that your hairstyle will go along with the theme, if  you don’t wish to wear a wig at least put some hair dress. 

Oscars   

Girls who have always dreamed of walking on the red carpet should have an Oscars Night as a theme for their debut. Complete the scene by rolling out a red carpet by the entrance as well as asking your guests to be in their best and Oscar-worthy ensembles.   

Beach Inspired Party  

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If you always had a thing for the beach then ditch the gowns, fancy dresses, and cakey makeup and ask your guests to arrive in their best beachwear instead. Forget about the girl who needed to be in heels and best of her elegant fashion.  Choose a resort for a venue and break out your best swimwear for your debut.  

Hunger Games Party   

If you have been an avid fan of Katniss Everdeen or just the book series “Hunger Games,” you can incorporate elements and themes of the book into your debut party. Your party can be a fun homage to the movie, and you can stay true to the idea by adding Mockingjay accents as well as fun games.  You can arrive in a costume portraying an archer like Katniss and bring out your dauntless personality. 

Masquerade   

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Add a little mystery and intrigue to your debut by having everyone arrive in masks. Turn your debut party into a night of fun and anonymity by instructing guests not to remove their covers until midnight.   

Super Hero Themed Party   

If you have always been an avid fan of DC or Marvel comics, incorporate the superhero theme into your debut. Ask your guests to arrive in costume but strictly indicate who you would be entering as to avoid being upstaged by another guest who had a similar superhero costume in mind.  

Movie Night by the Pool   

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If elaborate parties are not your thing and if you wish to have a more intimate affair without missing any of the fun of traditional debut parties, you can always opt for movie night by the pool. Gather a number of your closest friends and have an outdoor movie night by the pool. Play some movies on an overhead projector and have everyone swim in the pool while watching movies.    

Zombie Tag   

If you are an ultra fan of TV series such as The Walking Dead and the like, then you will enjoy having a Zombie Tag themed debut. You can even skip the traditional eighteen roses, candles and treasures segment of the appearance and devote your party to playing a game of zombie tag.    

Hogwarts Adventure  

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Passionate fans of Harry Potter are going to love this theme. Decorate your tables with various ideas found from the book such as a candelabra for your centerpiece, better use long tables to incorporate more of the Harry Potter feels or movie series and fashion your menu after the food items found in the book.  Every Potterhead is sure to have a grand time during this themed debut.   

Geocaching Treasure Hunt   

Instead of having an eighteen treasures segment, have a geocaching treasure hunt instead. This game utilizes GPS coordinates and smartphones to locate hidden caches all over your venue. With your guests participating in the fun, it will surely be a fun way to remember your party.   Amaze your guests when technology and innovation collide on your special day. 

A Travel Splurge   

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If you do not wish to have a party and are more receptive to seeing new places by yourself, you can explore your newfound independence by traveling just by yourself and with a set of friends instead. After all, you do not necessarily need to throw an elaborate party to celebrate your eighteenth birthday. You can spend it learning about new places and cultures with your friends instead.   

Night in a Limousine   

If you have a preference for the more delicate things in life and would want to experience a night out in the city on board your very own limousine, ditch the elaborate party and cruise around town with your friends in a rented limousine. Alternatively (and if money permits), you may choose to have the party still and arrive in a limo.   

Fancy Dress Up Party

 

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In essence, debuts are generally considered as affairs wherein guests are encouraged to dress up. However, some guests might find the alternative by wearing cocktail dresses. To prevent this from happening, indicate a strict dress code in your invitations and ask your guests to arrive in their best attires.

   
Video Game Marathon   

If you are a video game enthusiast, opt to include aspects of video games in your debut. You can ask your guests to come as their favorite video game character, and you can decorate your debut venue accordingly as well.   

A Night in the Casino   

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Make your debut party more fun by incorporating casino games not only as a theme but as a functional game as well. Not only would slot machines and roulette tables make for excellent party décor, but they would also give your guests hours of playing fun.   

Barbecue Party   

If what you have in mind is a low-key party then opt to have a barbecue party and have your guests arrive in an ensemble fit for grilling.  In the hype of Korean grilling relatively prominent for the concept “samgyupsal” it would be so much fun to incorporate this to your party.

Bohemian Party   

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Look for a suitable venue situated near the beach and channel your inner boho goddess by throwing a bohemian themed debut party.  Find comfort by eliminating chairs instead choose to sit on pillows. 

Rock Concert   

If you are into rock music or even a sport, ask your folks to score you and your friends a few tickets to watch your favorite rock band play or to attend a sporting event. To make it extra special, try to see if it is possible to have your birthday announced on the big screen.   

Coachella/Music Festival   

If Music Festivals and Coachella are more of your speed, book local music acts to serve as entertainment and designate a stage for them Coachella style. To stay true to the theme, plop up tents which would serve a dual purpose: décor and resting places for ocean waves watching.   

Beach Glam   

If you believe yourself to be a daughter of the sea, have a beach glam themed debut party and utilized beach décor concepts and elements.  A bonfire at night adds more feels to the party while roasting marshmallow and sharing stories as the night gets deeper.

Glam Rock   

If you want your inner rock star to shine through, have a glam rock party wherein you and your guests can still arrive in gowns but with punk rock undertones.   

Sailing Party  

For a truly memorable event, ask your parents to rent a yacht for you where you can hold your eighteenth debut party. From there, the night sky can serve as your backdrop, and you and your guests can have a fun time sailing the ocean while enjoying the festivities.   You can also drink up until late night or you can also choose to enjoy the water by providing cool activities like swimming and snorkeling. 

Nautical Theme   

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Have servers dressed up as navy cadets and ask your eighteen roses to dress up in ship captain’s garb. More importantly, your menu and décor should include nautical themes.   

Hawaiian Theme   

If a fancy luau is what you have in mind for your eighteenth birthday, choose a Hawaiian Theme for your debut and have your guests sip from pineapple glasses.    

Fireworks Party   

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Designate an outdoor area for your eighteenth debut party and set off a fireworks display as a finale for you and your guests to enjoy.   

Mocktail Party   

If your parents do not think you are old enough to be imbibing alcoholic beverages just yet, station a mocktail bar that would serve you and your friends similar club and bar drinks sans the alcoholic content.   

Seventies Themed Party   

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Take a trip down memory lane by throwing an eighteenth birthday bash seventies style. Everything from your décor down to your music should be from the seventies era. Oh, and ideally you should ask your guests to come dressed from the seventies era as well.  Feed your ears with the great music of the seventies and dance the night away. 

Costume Party  

If you are the type of girl, who wishes to dress up with no particular theme in mind, ask your guests to come as their favorite characters or costumes. This idea is an excellent party theme for those girls whose birthdays fall around October and could double up as a Halloween celebration.    

Nineties Themed Party

If you are a big fan of the nineties, then pay homage to the era by dedicating your eighteenth birthday to it. Choose the 90s as a theme and have your guests arrive with costumes reminiscent of the early Britney Spears years or during the Spice Girls era.   

Cosplay Party   

If you love dressing up as your favorite anime or video game character, ask your guests to follow suit with a Cosplay Party. To make sure that everyone makes the effort of dressing up, indicate that a prize awaits the best-dressed guest.   

Aladdin Theme Party   

Incorporate a world of magic into your celebration through this theme. Better have colorful ceiling drapings and don’t miss out to put the famous magic carpet, it can be the floor design on the debutante’s area and smoke effects can also add feels to the event.

DEBUT GAME IDEAS    

Describe Me   

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An excellent game to break the ice is “Describe Me.” To play, ask a friend or your debut coordinator to tape a slip of paper to the back of each of the guests’ shirts. Once they start mingling with the other guests, have them write their first impressions of each other on the slop of paper. Be sure to make it clear that comments are clean and friendly. Once everyone has interacted with each other, have them take off the paper sheets and write their names on the back and submit it to you. Read the comments aloud and see who can guess the person described. The person who can predict the most guests correctly wins the game.   

Fun Facts   

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An excellent way to find out just how well your friends know you are to have fun facts kind of game. Ask your guests to participate and have the party host ask you some questions such as your favorite color, first crush, etc. Your guests’ answers should match yours to score a point.   If this game is played at the end part of the program better have consequences for non winners to actually brought out their competitive side. Consequences could include talent show off, jumping off the pool or drinking wine that doesn’t taste that good. 

Scavenger Hunt   

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This game is pretty much like I spy but with less the effort. Before your guests arrive, write down what prizes you have for them on pieces of paper and hide these in hidden areas. Have your guests search for them during the game segment of your program.   

Live Band Karaoke   

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If you and your friends have a penchant for belting out songs, then stage a live karaoke session with your hired band. You can either have a panel of judges or ask the audience to vote for their favorite contestant by clapping.    

Name That Tune  

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To play this game, you require a premade playlist and a set of answers. It can be a set of your favorite songs or songs that would match the theme of your debut. Play about thirty seconds of each song and ask your guests to guess the name of the song.    

Truth, Truth, Lie  

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Hand a card to each guest the moment they arrive and ask them to write three facts of themselves. Two of these facts must be accurate while one should be a lie. Once everyone is ready to play the game, have the guest read there, and everyone else should work out which one is the lie. The person with the most right answers wins.   

Teen’s Choice Awards  

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If you do not mind sharing the spotlight with your friends, then you can stage an awards night at the end of your program. At each table, have a set of cards for the number of guests seated at the table. Each guest should cast their vote among a myriad of categories to your liking. It can include the best-dressed guest, the sweetest couple, etc.   

Planning your debut does not have to be difficult. With the internet at your disposal, you have a world of party inspiration ideas at your hands. All you need to do is research them. Celebrate this momentous event by planning the perfect birthday party that is unique and personal to you. With the ideas above, you are all set to make a grand event filled with fond memories of your transition from a girl to a woman. These memories would then be worth reminiscing as your journey through adulthood.   

The post 50+ Debut Party Ideas   appeared first on Hizon's Catering.

Without a doubt, music plays a pivotal role in weddings.

While a wedding invitation would be the prelude to your event, it is actually your music that provides the ambiance. In a momentous social event, weddings often associate with big reunions wherein family members, relatives and friends from even far-flung areas would come back to witness the joyful union of bride and groom. As it is an event marked with much importance, it would be clear why affianced couples would want to create the best mood and ambiance for their wedding guests and ensure that every single one of their guests would be having a grand time. With that, music comes in and plays an imperative role. The music and wedding songs played in the various segments of your wedding ceremony has a significant role in creating a mood, dictating the ambiance and assuring a pleasant and joyful background for the wedding.

Apart from that, the music you choose helps in lightening up the atmosphere and keeps your guests entertained. More importantly, it can give your wedding guests a subtle nod and hint at the kind songs and genres you and your spouse find yourselves listening and gravitating. In this regard, the music and songs you choose for your wedding would also give your guests an insight as to who you and your spouse are as a couple. However, with a myriad of romantic and love songs at a couple’s disposal, it is understandable why some couples would meet the endeavor of choosing songs with much difficulty.

After all, with the sheer number of options they have, it is quite easy to be overwhelmed. With this in mind, this article has collected a set of useful tips to help couples select the perfect songs followed by a suggestion of wedding songs for the various parts of their wedding ceremony.

TIPS FOR CHOOSING YOUR WEDDING SONGS

Choosing your wedding songs might seem like a daunting task. After all, you want to create the perfect ambiance, and you cannot do this without the aid of an expertly curated playlist. Your options might be limitless, but you can start by listing down the songs you do like. Once you come up with a list of songs, you can then refine and condense it to suit the various segments of your wedding ceremony aptly. Here are the multiple steps to take in choosing your music:

Getting Started

One of the initial things to consider when it comes to curating a playlist for your wedding is to decide whether you are hiring a band or a DJ (or both if you can afford it). Naturally, cost and expenses will be a pivotal factor in helping you decide. However, beyond estimating how much you are going to fork up for the service, there are other important points you need to consider. These points include knowing what tone you want to set and what kind of theme you have in mind (traditional, unique or alternative). Once you have an idea of what you want, choosing between a DJ and a band will be so much easier.

Picking Key Wedding Songs

Throughout the day, there will be moments you want to highlight. You can achieve this with the appropriate music that is both fitting for the mood. To ensure underscored moments are with the right music, work with your DJ or band beforehand.

Pre-ceremony music

Your pre-ceremony music helps set the tone for your wedding and played while your guests are arriving and trying to find their seats. Choose songs that are low-key but upbeat. More often than not, music without lyrics works perfectly for this segment.

Processional

It is the music played the moment your wedding party is about to enter. Ideally, you want to send them down the aisle in style. Choose an upbeat song that gives their entrance more of an impact. However, be sure that the music you choose would not make your entry anti-climactic.

Bridal Entrance

Typically, a bride’s wedding march is one that should capture and captivate the people in the room. After all, you want to have everyone’s eyes on you as you make your way down the aisle. Choose an instrumental version of a song that has a poignant meaning to you.

Cocktail Hour

While waiting for you to arrive at your reception venue, your wedding guests would be enjoying cocktails. Dictate the vibe and mood by choosing appropriate music for it. Of course, you want them to anticipate your arrival so pick a song that is upbeat but not enough to have people dancing just yet.

Reception Entrance

More often than not, your wedding entourage would also make their entrance to your reception hall. In this regard, you can ask them for the song they wish to have played the moment they enter. Alternatively, you can choose a set of preselected songs that have a special meaning to you and the members of your bridal entourage.

First Dance

Ideally, this is where you and your spouse should play your song. Unfortunately, identifying what this is can be somewhat difficult unless you and your spouse already know what your song is. If you do not, you can start by thinking the kind of dance you want to have (intimate, fun, silly or choreographed) and ask what kind of reaction you want to evoke from your guests (surprise or sentimentality). From there, choosing your first dance song would be so much easier.

Dinner Music

Similar to the cocktail hour, you can give the band or your DJ a heads up as to the kind of mood and vibe you wish to create and have them choose the songs to play. Alternatively, you can have a set of preselected music for which they can play. Remember, dinner time is where mingling and conversation usually happens, so keep things mellow.

THE TOP SONGS PLAYED IN FILIPINO WEDDINGS

Filipinos are known to be big music lovers. Majority of them have a particular partiality for love and romantic songs which is evidenced by the curated playlist every Filipino wedding would seemingly play. Sure, these ballads of love and romantic melodies might be apt considering the occasion, but they do have a reputation of being overused and overplayed in weddings over and over again.

In any case, here are the top 10 songs that have become synonymous with Filipino weddings throughout the years insomuch that they have become a standard staple in wedding celebrations across the country. With that considered, you should tread carefully and decide for yourself whether any of the songs below are worthy of being played during your wedding day.

The Way You Look Tonight

Revived and made famous by Frank Sinatra and Michael Buble, the song became a Filipino wedding staple when included in two wedding-themed movies namely Father of the Bride (1991) and My Best Friend’s Wedding (1997).

Ngayon at Kailanman

A local entry in this list, Ngayon at Kailanman first performed by Basil Valdez and revived by Sharon Cuneta. The song’s straightforward message of deep love and affection has resonated with many Filipino couples which makes it a standard tune in most local weddings.

We’ve Only Just Begun

Released by The Carpenters in the year 1970, the song was intended for a commercial featuring a newlywed couple driving into the sunset. However, the message of starting a new life together is not lost on Filipinos as this song remains to be a famous wedding anthem for most Filipino weddings.

Pangako

The song title itself translates to the word promise which happens to be a message most Filipino couples find themselves gravitating to when it comes to their love. For this reason, the song remains to be a popular choice when it comes to creating a wedding playlist.

Sanaý Wala Nang Wakas

This local song has strong undertones and messages of deep undying and unwavering love which makes it a popular choice for a wedding ballad. However, the song is best rendered and performed by a choir if used for a wedding.

All My Life

Although this song never attained worldwide popularity and did not do so well in the US Billboard charts, the song’s message made a mark on Filipinos. It has won the hearts of many Filipino couples and has since then become one of the most-played love songs at a Filipino wedding.

I Finally Found Someone

As an original soundtrack for a romantic movie, it would be understandable why the song would make its way to weddings. However, what captured the Filipinos hearts is how the song was incorporated in the movie and its lyrics.

The Gift

Although intended as a holiday track, this favorite wedding song became such a hit with the Filipinos after Jim Brickman gave his rendition of the song together with Martina Mcbride.

Forevermore

Performed by an iconic local band, the song’s simple melody has made its way to the hearts of Filipinos. With the well-crafted lyrics complemented by the accompaniment of piano and guitar, the song became a known theme song for most Filipinos.

Ikaw

Similarly used in a local movie with the same title, this is one of the songs with a message most Filipinos find themselves resonating. Typically used as a bridal march, the song has since then worked its way to many Filipino weddings.

Wedding Entrance Songs

Fun Wedding Entrance Songs

Take a break from the conventional and choose a song that best defines and highlights the fun element of your relationship. Instead of the sappy love songs, pick something a little more upbeat and gets you in the mood to celebrate.

Raise Your Glass by P!nk

This song is perfect entrance track for couples who wish to be toasted to as they make their way to the reception hall as a newlywed couple.

Feel So Close by Calvin Harris

Couples who have a proclivity for EDM tracks will think this song apt as background music for their entrance.

Shut Up and Dance by Walk the Moon

If you and your spouse are big on breaking out some moves, then you will love dancing to the beat of your entrance march with this track.

Crazy in Love

If you genuinely want to make a statement about how in love you are with each other, channel your inner Beyoncé and break into a dance the moment you make your entrance to the room. Make it complete by choosing one of her most famous and beloved tracks.

Funny Wedding Entrance Songs

Give your guests an insider’s view of the less serious aspects in your relationship such as the sense of humor you and your spouse possess. If you wish to lighten up the mood, get your party off to a great start with a funny wedding reception entrance song.

All I Do Is Win by DJ Khaled

Technically, both you and your spouse won by marrying each other on that day which makes this song humorous and apt at the same time.

Dear Future Husband by Megan Trainor

For brides who wish to give their husbands a subtle hint then this song is the perfect song to make your entrance as a newlywed couple.

Popular Wedding Entrance Songs

These tracks are beloved and popular. Although some of them are more contemporary than the rest, these tracks are known by all and are fitting for the moment. More importantly, it can get your wedding guests to sing and dance along to the words as you make your grand entrance.

Forever by Chris Brown

While this song is rather upbeat for a track that filled with so much emotion, Forever by Chris Brown is the best song for your entrance to if you wish to mark your wedding as the beginning of eternity.

Marry You by Bruno Mars

Typical and conventional but sweet, this track sets the tone for a delightful evening ahead.

Wedding Ceremony Songs (For Walking In and Walking Out)

Commonly known as the processional song, the hymns you and your party will walk down the aisle to should not only set the tone for your event but should also hold deep meaning to you. Ideally, you should choose one song for everyone while you have your separate song for your grand entrance. Here are some of the traditional choices for both walking in and walking out of the aisle.

Marchial Wedding Ceremony Songs

Bridal Chorus, Wagner

More commonly known as Here Comes the Bride, Wagner’s Bridal Chorus is a classic wedding staple that remains popular until today. This song is one of the go-to choices for a majority of prospective brides.

Canon in D, Pachelbel

Another common choice among brides, Canon in D by Pachelbel is a gorgeous piece of music beautifully played by a traditional quartet. If a classic entrance is what you are aiming for, you will never go wrong with this piece.

A Thousand Years, The Piano Guys

Initially performed by Christina Perri, A Thousand Years is a popular choice for wedding entrances once couples realized how beautiful its instrumentals are. Albeit more modern and contemporary than the rest of the entries in this list, it is the perfect choice for couples who cannot decide between a classic instrumental or more modern love song with vocals.

Marry Me, Train

If you have a thing for modern songs but are unsure as to how to proceed or which song to choose, Marry Me by Train makes the perfect choice for you. The melody and lyrics are both beautiful. More importantly, the tempo is just right for a processional.

Recessional Wedding Ceremony Songs

Wedding March, Mendelssohn

A conventional and traditional choice for the wedding recessional, Mendelssohn’s Wedding March is a grand organ piece that capitalizes on high drama.

First Day of My Life, Bright Eyes

If you have a penchant for the acoustics, then this song is an excellent choice for you. Apart from being an unconventional alternative, it is also a unique way to start the first day of your married life.

Arrival of the Queen Sheba, Handel

While initially intended to signify one’s arrival, it works better as a recessional. This classical piece is high in tempo and is a joyful beat to exit.

Wedding First Dance Song Ideas

Undoubtedly, picking out the first song to dance to will be met with much difficulty unless you and your partner have already figured out on a song beforehand. Typically, your first dance should be to the song that defines you as a couple. However, if you have not figured out what that is yet, here are some ideas.

Happy by Pharell

Happy by Pharell might be a little too upbeat for most couples, it is a beautiful song to start your journey as a couple. After all, your wedding day should be the happiest day of your life so you might as well choose a song that best defines it.

I’m Gonna Make You My Wife by Whispers

For brides who want something a little more fitting and romantic, this song by Whispers is an incredibly apt tune to have your first dance. It is especially perfect for couples who want a song that is heavy on emotions and carries a poignant message.

Lucky by Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat

For couples who are feeling lucky, they married their best friend, this song by Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat is a beautiful song with perfect lyrics for your first dance.

Spend My Life With You by Tamia and Eric Benet

Couples who wish to dance to underrated songs with deep meanings should choose this track for their first dance. The song wonderfully conveys the essence of love and defines the moment you know you have found the one.

Better Together by Jack Johnson

A little under the radar but a favorite of many couples, this song by Jack Johnson is the perfect melody to dance to if you are a couple who loves playful acoustic song.

As music sets the tone for your wedding event, keep in mind to choose the most appropriate ones that stir the right emotions and convey a message of love and harmony to your guests. Ensure that the songs you have picked out are the perfect sit for the ceremony you have in mind and have planned.

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